Story & cover photo by Barbara L. Steinberg

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA RICHES AT MARRIOTT NAPA VALLEY HOTEL & SPA

While the various wine regions have unique and wonderful offerings, world-wide if you mention "California wine country" the response is almost always: Napa Valley. This is where lovers of great food and wine, nature vistas, small towns, and luxury and hometown comforts can all agree. Drive the back roads, enjoy some extra scenic views along the way, and set your landing gear at the front door of the new and improved Marriott Napa Valley Hotel & Spa.

The two-story, low-rise hotel has undergone a stunning $7 million transformation. The interior is definitely 21st –century cool. Great public spaces include large modular lounging sofas and sliding doors that face a covered terrace and pool area. You'll love the open-air feeling of the lobby and extended restaurant area where dining is always an option. Don't miss the evening lobby reception where you'll be treated to local wines and lovely plates of house-made starters. Flat bread with goat cheese and fresh figs, fresh olives, chickpea fries — do I have your attention? Oh, yes, full bar includes Garden Cocktails made with fresh herbs from the hotel's culinary garden. Fantastic on a warm summer evening. You might want to pace yourself; dinner is definitely a consideration!

The reception offerings are a clear indication of things to come at the recently opened VINeleven. The heart and soul of Chef Brian Whitmer (pictured) oozes out of every menu item. With a focus on farm fresh and locally-sourced, the small plate menu is a thing of joy. Really, the plates may be small, but not the meals. You won't go away hungry! Definitely try the Little Gems salad and (yes!) Ricotta Cheesecake with strawberries is one for the memory banks. Breakfasts are equally special, but watch for the Chef's special granola. Yum!

The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients that utilize 14 raised beds in the hotel's garden. Delicious garden-to-glass cocktails also make use of what's grown on site. Try a basiltini, lemon verbena mojito and others that incorporate lavender.

Hotel rooms are restful and well-appointed. Those lovely pillow-top mattresses, down comforters, and lots of fluffy pillows are hard to resist. A nice work space, flat-screen TV, and a cozy armchair to sit and contemplate your next move. Wireless, of course, but there's a small fee. Otherwise, it's free in public spaces and there are computers in the lobby for guest use. Rooms include the convenience of small fridge, wine glasses and wine opener for those special vintages acquired during forays into the Valley.

Did I mention the Marriott's concierge staff is excellent and provides great guidance to first-timers or otherwise? If you're looking for things to do or need reservations they are there to please. In fact, all of the staff is welcoming and professional. And on the electronic side of service, there's a 42-inch reader board in the lobby to help direct guests to all the best Napa attractions, food, and wine.

Be sure to visit the pool and Jacuzzi if you can find time away from all of Napa's other great distractions. AND a spa which includes steam room and Jacuzzi in the women's lounge.

While Marriott Napa Valley Hotel & Spa is the ideal romantic retreat or friend's getaway, it's also nice for families. Located close to all that's right in Napa including the Silverado Trail and Downtown Napa, the hotel is just down the road from Yountville, as well.

Though rooms are moderately priced they're a value, considering all they provide. Plus, weekdays you can find some real bargain rates at this property. We found rates in the low $200's.

BTW - their website is new and improved, too!

Napa Valley! Food and wine! They are clearly joined at the lip. Endless selections. How do you choose? An easy solution is in the hotel parking lot. Engage Change of Greenery is an electric bicycle rental and tour company. People- or battery-powered, these bikes are gentle on the Earth and a great way to enjoy nearby wineries, restaurants, and retail without breaking a sweat. The owner, Carolyn, provides a variety of well-appointed maps and discounts at partner venues such as Judd's Hill. And best of all, she will pick-up wine purchases and deliver them back to the hotel. Judd's Hill tastings are by appointment only. This is a small family winery and you most often find family and friends behind the pour. Small and intimate...its reminiscent of bygone days.

You can also bike to the spectacular views and tasting room at Artessa Vineyards & Winery, a hilltop jewel. Food and wine pairings are worth the pedaling to the top. However, driving is always an option. The Marriott has a Town Car available on a first-come basis. Especially nice if you decide to indulge in lunch or dinner at Domain Chandon's étoile, the only fine-dining restaurant located in a winery. Reservations are recommended.

I could say more, but those two words — Napa + Valley pretty much say it all.

Napa Valley Marriott
3425 Solano Avenue Napa, Ca. 94558, USA.
Reservations: 1.707.253.8600
napavalleymarriott.com

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12 meeting rooms
Executive Boardroom
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Two 4,000-square-foot ballrooms
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